French, 1869-1954.

Henri Matisse is often regarded as the most important French painter of the 20th century, known for his innovative use of color and form in his paintings. He was a leading figure in the Fauvist movement. Matisse’s work often featured bold, vibrant colors and simplified forms, reflecting his interest in capturing the essence of his subjects rather than their realistic depiction. Throughout his career, he experimented with various artistic styles and media, including painting, sculpture, and collage. His mastery of the expressive language of color and drawing, displayed in a body of work spanning over a half-century, won him recognition as a leading figure in modern art.